About
A low, spreading evergreen shrub, to around 1m high and twice as wide, with oblong to lance-shaped foliage with a slightly wavy margin. Leaves emerge coppery-red in spring, and mature to glossy dark green; older leaves turn dark red in the autumn. Clusters of small white flowers appear in late spring, followed by ornamental red berries.
About the genus
Photinia can be evergreen or deciduous shrubs or trees, with simple leaves and panicles of small white flowers, usually followed by red berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich soil in sun or partial shade. See photinia cultivation
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 10 if necessary. Pruning may reduce flowering and fruiting
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fireblight, a leaf spot, honey fungus and powdery mildews